The Island Storm has announced Wednesday the signing of six-foot-seven lockdown defender Du’Vaughn Maxwell.

The Petersburg, Virginia native spent two seasons playing NCAA Division-I basketball with the Hampton Pirates, where he started all 62 games for the Pirates between 2012 and 2014, averaging 14.9 points in his final season.

After spending the 2016-17 season playing professionally in Mexico, Maxwell is excited to take the next step in Canada, he said.

“This is a big opportunity to prove myself as a player. I’m a high energy, aggressive player and a defense first guy.”

Maxwell’s defensive game is just part of the reason Storm Coach Tim Kendrick has big expectations.

“He could be a real professional for us,” said Kendrick. “He’s a solid defender and all around player that could also be a big scorer.”

Maxwell, arguably, is much more than a solid defender. In his senior year at Hampton he was named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year. The Manhattan, NY, native was also named to the First Team All-MEAC.

His time in Hampton helped Maxwell learn to become a professional at a young age, he said.

“I got to play for coaches I really respected in Hampton. They helped prepare me for life as a professional and I was able to grow as a leader there.”

Leadership is something Maxwell wants to bring to the Storm, he said.

“I want to be a leader for the team. I bring 110 per cent to practices, games, scrimmages, everything.”

Kendrick thinks Maxwell’s hard work and leadership could help him be a real surprise for the Storm this season, he said.

“He’s an offensive threat that can play all over the floor. He’s a versatile player with real solid potential.”

Fulfilling his potential will help lead to team success for Maxwell and the Storm, he said.

“I’m new to the league so I want to develop and get better as a player, but I want to help the team win. I want to bring leadership to help build and grow with the team.”

Fans can get their first look at the new Storm team November 18 at the Eastlink Centre against the expansion team from Newfoundland. Fans can purchase season tickets at the box office or can get more information by clicking here.